Check out these Day in the Life vlogs to get a better understanding of what study abroad looks like!

What is study abroad?

Study abroad is the ability to earn credits while taking coursework in a foreign country. UW Tacoma students can study abroad within their major/minor to earn credits towards their degree or not! Students also have the option to study abroad and take courses outside of what they are currently studying. Whether through UW Tacoma's own programs or those offered by UW Seattle or Bothell, each campus boasts unique experiences and dedicated study abroad offices to assist you in exploring and applying to your ideal program. 

Delve into our YouTube channel to explore past study abroad workshops and hear firsthand experiences from fellow students who have ventured abroad. And stay connected with us on Instagram @uwtstudyabroad to keep up with the latest updates and current events. Follow us for a glimpse into our vibrant community and upcoming happenings! Students can also email uwtintl@uw.edu with any study abroad questions. 

Where can I go?

As a UW student, you have the unique opportunity to study abroad through any of the three campuses – Tacoma, Seattle, and Bothell. Each campus hosts its own study abroad offices, providing you with the opportunity to connect and ask questions about each campus's program offerings. Seize this chance to engage with them, ask questions, and delve into the myriad academic opportunities available across our interconnected university system.

Navigate through these provided links to discover the program that aligns with your interests and aspirations!

UW Tacoma Programs

UW Seattle & Bothell Programs

What are the types of programs?

In general, there are four types of programs:

  1. Faculty-led Programs: Faculty guide groups of students abroad to explore a country or several countries through unique lenses based on the courses embedded in the program. It's the most common choice for many UW Tacoma students annually, as majority of UWT programs are faculty-led. A wonderful consideration for students to have guidance from a faculty(s) abroad long with an opportunity to build supportive cohort when navigating your journey.
  2. Exchange Programs: Offering students the opportunity to experience life as a student in a foreign university for a quarter or longer. These programs necessitate a greater level of self-reliance, fostering independence as students navigate unfamiliar academic and cultural landscapes.
  3. Partner Programs: These programs are run by outside organizations, such as CIEE, and they have been approved by the UW. These types of programs offer a wide variety of locations, but they tend to be more expensive that faculty-led programs. 
  4. Internships: Students have access to international internships through the UW Seattle's study abroad office. For further exploration of their options, simply click on this link.
How do I apply?

For UW Tacoma Programs, the application involves a few demographic questions, three short essays, and a recommendation form.

  • The Recommendation form is NOT a letter of recommendation. It's a quick form asking the recommender to rate the student's ability to study abroad.

Whereas, the three short essays will ask for the following:

  1. Program Fit: 500-750 words statement - Describing your background and reasons for choosing this program/exchange, and the projected benefits of this experience to your course of study and long-term plans.
  2. Adaptability: 250 words statement - Describing your adaptability in a new environment and/or an interaction with an individual from a culture different. In addition to understanding how this certain experience may help with your study abroad journey.
  3. Group Dynamic: 250 words statement - Describing a experience with a group situation and the ways you navigated the social dynamics.
How can I fund study abroad?

The Office of Global Affairs Tacoma understands the financial challenges of higher education. Here are some avenues we encourage students to explore when seeking funding for their study abroad experiences.

Financial Aid: If you are already receiving financial aid, this can extend to cover your study abroad endeavors (etc. program fee, airplane ticket cost, etc.). Reach out to your financial aid advisor if you're interested in studying abroad as they can help get your the funds needed for your international academic journey. Even if you're not currently eligible for aid, still reach out to your financial aid advisor. Study abroad may bump you into the threshold where you may qualify for aid.

  • The Financial Aid Office also offers short term loans to help assist students for immediate need for funds. Click this link for more information.

Scholarships: These are four-five scholarships we encourage students to keep in mind. 

  1. IIGE - $1,000; In-house for UWT students
  2. OGA - $1,000; In-house for UWT students
  3. The Gilman - Up to $5,000; National Competitive Scholarship
  4. The Gilman McCain: Awarding $5,000 for undergraduate active Military Students/ Dependents; National Scholarship
  5. Fund for Education Abroad (FEA): Up to $5,000; National Competitive Scholarship

GI Benefits & Fundraising: 

  • If receiving GI benefits and your study abroad courses will fulfill major credits, you are eligible to use your GI benefits to pay for your study abroad. Contact the Veteran Military Resource Center (VMRC) & The Office of Global Affairs (OGA) for assistance and future planning.
  • One consideration is that students can do a gofundme or ask for money for a big life milestone or event (e.g., holiday or birthday).

 

General Recommendations

The Office of Global Affairs highly recommend students to through explore these following considerations:

Studying Abroad as a UWT Student

Video is also available with audio description.

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Spring Quarter Walk-In Advising Hours

Students with study abroad questions are able to walk in and meet with an OGA Fellow to discuss study abroad. Advising will be located in the GWP 102 unless listed.

Monday: 12 - 1PM 

Tuesday: 12:30 - 1:30PM

Wednesday: 12:30 -1:30PM @ CEI Kitchen

Thursday: 12:30 - 1:30PM